Paracord, gill net, or Leatherman?

My wife and I enjoy watching the show “Alone” together. Yeah, I see the irony there. 

Anyway, if you’re not familiar with the TV series, 10 contestants are individually dropped somewhere in the wilderness to see who can survive the longest. Separated by miles with only 10 survival items, they must film their own survival journey. Did I say they were by themselves?

However, if being alone gets to be too much, or the weather too unbearable, they can "tap out" anytime and call for help. And no, they can’t use the satphone to call Uber Eats.

We’re drawn to the show for many reasons, one being that we enjoy hiking, camping, and s’mores–those outdoor woodsy things. We’re also fascinated by how the contestants use a variety of survival skills to remain in the game. Some of the shelters that have been built are impressive.

In fact, Mike from season 2 created an elaborate shelter with features like a makeshift sink, table, and even a bowling alley. While Moen, Delta, and Kohler won’t copy his design, having running water in the wilderness is impressive.

But they struggle.

The lack of easy to access food gets to them and starvation begins to set in. Of course some contestants are able to catch fish and trap animals, but it's usually really hard. And while Roland from season 7 was able to make a “meat-crib” for the musk-ox he killed, contestants don’t have a fridge they can just open up and dig in.

But the most common reason contestants quit and go home is because of isolation and lack of human contact.

They miss their families, friends, and loved ones. The reality of being away from them is overwhelming. The mental strain of being completely alone in the wilderness for an extended period gets to be too much. Way too much. 

Intuitively, we know that humans were never meant to walk through life alone. And secretly, maybe that’s one thing that pulls my wife and I into watching the show.

From the very beginning, humans have thrived in connection—with family, with friends, with a community that offers support and belonging. 

And yet, when loneliness takes hold of us and even our players, it often convinces us that we are better off isolating ourselves. It tells us that no one would understand, that reaching out is pointless, and that being alone is easier. In short, loneliness lies.

But the reality is this: living in community is one of the most powerful ways to break free from the cycle of isolation, depression, and loneliness. And boom goes the dynamite.

Community matters.

And this is exactly why Slingshot Esports exists. We provide opportunities for gamers to learn, play, compete, and interact with each other in a fun, safe environment. 

Being part of a community—whether it’s a group of friends, a faith-based gathering, a club, or even an online group that games together—reminds us that we are not alone. 

Engaging in social activities creates opportunities for meaningful connection, shared experiences, and mutual encouragement. These interactions, both inperson and online, counteract the negative thoughts that thrive in isolation.

Breaking out of isolation or helping our players do the same doesn’t have to mean diving headfirst into large social settings. There’s really no need to force out your non-existent dance moves at your cousin’s 300+ person wedding reception. Whew.

Start small. Join a group with shared interests, make polite conversation while waiting in line, or simply reach out to a trusted friend. Little by little, as you engage with others, the weight of loneliness begins to lift. 

If you or your player is struggling, please know that community is waiting for both or either of you. 

There are people who want to walk alongside you, who want to share your journey with you, and who will remind you—again and again—that no matter where in the world you might find yourself just trying to survive, you are never alone.

Make the connection:

• What is one small step that we can take to help our players find meaningful community?

We are #ForTheGamer and help players play with purpose and win for good.